Parents often ask us about the right age for braces and the right age for Invisalign to align their children’s teeth. So, we at Embrace orthodontics have compiled a list of a few telltale signs to help them identify the developing malalignment of teeth/jaws on their own.

1. Cross-Bite

When one or more upper teeth fit inside of the lower teeth, it is caused by mal-alignment of teeth or bone.

If left untreated,

Crossbites if left untreated, may lead to,

• Shifting of jaw to one side,

• Facial asymmetry and imbalance in the left or right side of the jaws

• Excessive tooth wear

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2. Spacing between teeth

Too much space between teeth, resulting from missing teeth, undersized teeth, oversized jaws or a combination of these conditions.

If left untreated,

• Possible chances of cavities or gum disease.

• Excessive spaces may lead to speech problems especially while speaking sibilants like s and v.

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3. Crowding

When there is inadequate space for the teeth resulting either from small size of the jaws or big teeth.

If left untreated,

Crowding of teeth in children if left interested may increase the chances of

• Cavities

• Gum disease

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4. Proclination of teeth

When front teeth stick out either because the upper jaw is too far forward or the lower jaw is too far backward.

It could also be a result of upper teeth growing at an angle or a combination of all of the above. It is also referred to as Buck teeth.

If left untreated,

• Speech problems.

• Prone to Accidental chipping and breaking.

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5. Underbite

The lower jaw sits in the front of the upper jaw.

If left untreated,

Face has “bull dog”appearance, tooth wear, stress on jaw joints.

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6. Deepbite

When the upper front teeth cover the lower teeth too much.

If left untreated,

• Possible gum disease.

• Excessive enamel wear

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7. Openbite

Chewing and speaking can be difficult when the upper and lower teeth cannot contact when the mouth is closed.

If left untreated,

• Swallowing problems.

• Possible speech problems.

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So,

If you observe any one or more of the above signs in your child then it is a right time to get a consultation with your orthodontist.

Some of the treatment options for your child at Embrace Orthodontics:

1. Invisalign First (Invisible Braces made specifically for kids)
2. Rapid Maxillary Expansion appliance (Jaw expansion)
3. 2 x 4 Appliance (Metal or clear braces for kids)

To understand the treatment options in detail click on the link below.